How the Dan Harmon Story Circle Can Make Your Story Better

T he act of storytelling has always been with us. Anthropologist Joseph Campbell took stories from around the world and found they all shared the same basic structure. Campbell's Hero's Journey laid out each of the fundamental steps in this story structure. A few decades later, Dan Harmon took this same idea and created the Story Circle. In Dan Harmon's Story Circle, there are 8 essential steps that can guide almost any story from Fade In to Fade Out. Let's walk through each step with examples so you can apply this foolproof structure to your next great idea.Continue reading How the…

The Best Movies on Hulu Right Now (Jan. 2021)

Hulu has really stepped up its game over the last few years, and with new competition like Disney+ and HBO Max, can you blame them? With so many streaming services, it’s hard to know where new releases go and old favorites live. But now the trouble is...how do you find anything? Well, we’ve got you covered. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you and we’ve curated our own library of the best movies on Hulu right now. As films come and go, we’ll be updating this list, so feel free to check back each month. Continue reading The Best Movies…

The Best Movies on Hulu Right Now (Dec. 2020)

Hulu has really stepped up its game over the last few years, and with new competition like Disney+ and HBO Max, can you blame them? With so many streaming services, it’s hard to know where new releases go and old favorites live. But now the trouble is...how do you find anything? Well, we’ve got you covered. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you and we’ve curated our own library of the best movies on Hulu right now. As films come and go, we’ll be updating this list, so feel free to check back each month. Continue reading The Best Movies…

What is an Antagonist — Definition & Examples

What is an antagonist? The simplest explanation is that an antagonist represents the opposite of the protagonist. But there’s much more to the term than that. They are the source of conflict in a story — and if you know anything about storytelling, you know that conflict is necessary. So, by understanding how antagonists are used in storytelling, we’re better equipped to handle story conflict in our own writing. In this post, we’ll cover all the different antagonistic forces a writer can choose from, how they work, and how to decide which one works best for your next story. Continue…

What is Pacing in Writing — And Why It’s So Important

Pacing is an elusive yet pivotal element in storytelling, acting as the rhythm that governs the reader's journey through the narrative. It dictates the rate at which a story unfolds, influencing the tension, mood, and emotional resonance. Without pacing, a story can have an awkward sense of movement and flow. The best writers and storytellers are those that master pacing. Continue reading What is Pacing in Writing — And Why It’s So Important

What is an Action Hero — Best Examples & Defining Traits

Action heroes have always held a prominent place in the world of cinema, captivating audiences with their unwavering commitment to justice and their remarkable blend of strength, courage, and wit. From the early days of cinema to the present, these characters have become iconic symbols of heroism, embodying the aspirations and values that resonate with viewers worldwide. In this article, we explore the allure of action heroes, examining why audiences have a deep-rooted love and admiration for these extraordinary individuals.Continue reading What is an Action Hero — Best Examples & Defining Traits

What is Freytag’s Pyramid — 5 Steps of Story Structure

Freytag's Pyramid is a seminal model that writers have utilized since its inception, breathing life into compelling narratives that captivate audiences. As we delve into its myriad layers, we'll uncover how it lends structure to the chaos of storytelling, prompting readers to embark on an emotional roller-coaster that leaves them yearning for more.Continue reading What is Freytag’s Pyramid — 5 Steps of Story Structure

How to Use Slow Motion to Create Iconic Moments

Like anyone who has spent two hours waiting at the DMV can attest, emotional states are affected by the perception of time. In filmmaking terms, we want to take a moment to discuss one of the most commonly used time manipulation techniques — slow motion — and how it can be used to add deeper, emotional intensity to a scene or sequence. Continue reading How to Use Slow Motion to Create Iconic Moments

Best Free Action Movie Scripts Online (with PDF Downloads)

Welcome to StudioBinder's screenplay library, your ultimate destination for heart-pounding thrills and explosive action. Dive into our handpicked selection of the best free action movie scripts, featuring adrenaline-fueled plots and unforgettable characters. From high-stakes heists to jaw-dropping stunts, this treasure trove of action scripts is a must-have resource for aspiring screenwriters and action enthusiasts alike. Get ready for an action-packed ride. Enjoy!Continue reading Best Free Action Movie Scripts Online (with PDF Downloads)

Academy Award for Best Visual Effects — The Complete List

  The world of cinema has always been a magical place where our wildest dreams and imagination come to life on the big screen. A significant part of this enchantment lies in the groundbreaking visual effects (VFX) that transport us to other worlds, create awe-inspiring creatures, and make the impossible seem possible.  In this article, we'll take you on a cinematic journey through the full list of Academy Award winners for Best VFX and highlight the top 10 films that have left an indelible mark on the history of cinema with their astonishing visual effects. Let's dive in. Continue reading…